Obituaries

DEFOREST—Ruthann Smith, age 88, passed away on October 1, 2022. She was born on November 22, 1933 in Bristol to the late Gilbert and Ruth (Quamme) Derr. Ruthann was a graduate of Columbus High School. She was united in marriage to Eldon Smith on July 9, 1956. She attended countless sporting events over the years and always enjoyed being surrounded by her children and grandchildren for family celebrations. Ruthann and her sisters will be lovingly remembered as the Bristol Belles.

For those who knew Ruthie, she was an energetic person who had a real zest for life and playing games. Although sheepshead was her card game of choice, she was always ready for a game of cribbage, dominos, double-deck euchre, solitaire or dice. Enjoying life was her passion and she remained active until she could no longer join her friends for weekly card games and gambling trips.

Ruthann is survived by her children, Clifton (Colleen), Grant (Lacinda), Larry (Norma), Rhonda (Kevin) Gilbertson, Neil (Susan), Daryl (Shaunde), Amy (Tim) Pfeil; 13 grandchildren, Devlin (Greg), Rachel (James), Matt (Chrissy), Ben (Lacy), Garrett (Olivia), Adam (Tracy), Courtney (Josh), Alec, Jason (Dawn), Carrie, Abby (Alex), Chambree, Neeleigh and 16 great grandchildren.

A private family service will be held on Wednesday, October 12, 2022 followed by a celebration of Ruthie’s life at Rude’s Lanes in DeForest from 4-6 pm.

The family would like to thank Ryan Funeral Home of DeForest and Chaplain David Brynelson. The family also sends a special thank you to Ruthie’s hospice care team (Patti, Lisa, Laura, Andrew and Aubrie) who will be remembered for their compassion, patience, guidance and sense of humor as her health declined. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to ProMedica Heartland Hospice.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services Windsor/DeForest Chapel 6924 Lake Road 608-846-4250